What You Need to Know About a Home Repipe

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Whole-Home Repiping Service

The Benefits of Repiping

Just like any other home appliance, a home’s plumbing system has to withstand a lot of use. They are used every day, multiple times throughout the day, and on-demand. While pipes normally work without our thinking about them, there are times when they can spring leaks, bust, or break altogether. 

Though pipes are durable and made to withstand regular use, with time they can also tend to wear down, become thin, crack, get holes in them, and even burst. Nearly every homeowner has experienced the frustration of a pipe that suddenly springs a leak. Whether it’s a slow leak that wets down your cement slab, a trickle that makes the wood support beams always wet and moist, or a continual leak that floods the basement, nearly everyone has experienced a leak. When this occurs, you’ll potentially face significant repair costs due to the impact a water leak can have on a home. 

In this article, you’ll learn what a home repipe is, why it’s beneficial when you might need it, and how to care for the plumbing system you have.

What Is a Home Repipe?

Home Repiping ToolsA home repipe occurs when the pipes in your home are too old to properly function. When pipes still have plenty of life left, then a simple patch or replacement is all that is needed to fix a leak. However, when you are dealing with numerous leaks and old pipes, then it becomes necessary to change the pipes in your house altogether. 

During a repipe, plumbers will cut away sections of drywall to access the piping in your home. They will then totally change out your old pipes with new ones. After the pipes are installed, the water is tested to ensure there are no more leaks or plumbing problems. Once the drywall is back in place, you won’t even know a repipe took place. 

Reasons for Repiping

There are several reasons why homeowners choose to have a whole-home repipe put in. Here are a few.

  • Old Pipes: The older your pipes the more likely they are to crack, leak, and wear through. If you own a home that is fifty years old and there has never been a repipe done, it could be beneficial to think about having one done.
  • Galvanized Pipes: These pipes are more prone to rust and corrosion than other options available today such as copper. 
  • Multiple Leaks: If you have leaks from multiple spots in various pipes around your plumbing system, it’s a clear sign that your piping needs to be replaced. While it’s possible to continue patching and replacing pieces of pipe, when you start to find multiple leaks, it points to the overall age of your pipes and a need for replacement.

Remember, the older the pipes, the more prone they are to cracks, leaks, bursting, and pinholes due to wear, use, and corrosion.

Tips for Preventing Pipe Damage

Pipe Damage Prevention Tips

In order to have a chance at preventing the need to completely repipe your home, it’s best to ensure proper maintenance of your plumbing. There are several things you can do to keep your pipes flowing as long as possible. First, watch what you flush and pour down the sink.

Never place things like oil, grease, or fat down the kitchen sink. When flushing the toilet, only use toilet paper and avoid “flushable” products, as they can create clogs. During the winter, be sure to wrap your pipes if you live in a zone that freezes. Wrapping pipes will prevent them from cracking, freezing, and bursting.

Finally, ensure you have the right fittings. Never place galvanized metal fittings onto a copper pipe, as the copper will corrode and begin to leak. Inspect your piping regularly to spot signs of wear and tear quickly. Do this and you’re sure to keep them in good shape.

Reliable, Expert Plumbers

Repipe Services From Trustworthy Technicians

Falcon Plumbing has proudly served Miami, FL, residents for all their plumbing needs for over twenty-five years. They offer a full range of services and can help with all your piping needs. Each customer can be guaranteed to receive personal attention, upfront flat-rate pricing, and 24/7 emergency service with no extra fees.

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Things You Need to Know About Backflow Testing

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What to Know About Backflow Testing

Backflow is a condition in which the flow of any water in your home reverses directions. Why is this a problem? Consider an irrigation system that is watering your lawn from the same plumbing as your drinking water, as most domestic sprinklers systems are designed.

If a backflow condition occurs, groundwater, debris, and lawn chemicals could all be pulled back into the freshwater side of your plumbing where your drinking water is stored.

If backflow does occur in your house, it means that all the water in your pipes will become polluted water. In this article, you will learn the risks associated with backflow and how to prevent it. You will also learn what to do in case you find yourself experiencing this issue.

Health Risks of Not Having Backflow Protection

health risksClean water is a mainstay in modern society. It is very easy to take for granted your access to potable water. When a backflow condition occurs, foreign matter, chemical contaminants, and biological contaminants can infect your water supply and leave you vulnerable.

Backflow often results in sewage or surface water being pulled back into your home’s plumbing where dangerous bacteria and viruses can live in your drinking water and infect or harm you. Backflow can be an issue on a municipal scale from businesses and water distribution systems.

When flooding occurs, if backflow prevention devices aren’t in place, contaminated surface water can be pulled into freshwater piping. Additionally, pipes serving industrial customers have been known to siphon products back into residential freshwater piping.

Prevent Backflow Conditions

Fortunately, devices and methods exist to prevent backflow conditions from occurring. Chances are, your home is equipped with a backflow prevention device. Municipal water supplies also have industrial-scale backflow preventers in place strategically to prevent contamination as well.

Preventing backflow is one of the most important steps to take to protect the safety of your water supply. Backflow preventers should be inspected and tested at least yearly to ensure that they are protecting your water supply. Municipalities and large industrial customers are required to have theirs tested annually as well.

prevent backflow

If you suspect that your backflow preventer has become compromised and might be contaminating your water supply, it may be wise to have it certified. In the certification process, an authorized backflow prevention certifier will sample your freshwater system and look for potential contaminants. Once the technician tests for chemical and biological contamination, they will certify that your backflow preventer is working and that your water supply is safe.

What to Do If You Have a Backflow Problem

water valveIf you find that backflow is happening in your system, it is important to know what to do. First, find your water valve in order to turn off the supply to your house. This will isolate your water system and help you figure out where the backflow is happening.

Next, locate the source of the backflow. Common culprits are pools, irrigation systems, booster pumps, and even dishwashers. Finally, have the problem repaired, restore water service, and flush the lines by turning on all faucets and spigots.

Letting lots of water flow through your plumbing will remove all of the potential contaminants. Having your water certified by a backflow preventer certified inspector will ensure that your water is safe and the job is complete.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has been committed to customer satisfaction in the Miami, FL area since 1986. Their plumbers are certified for backflow testing and certification for residential and commercial customers. Offering a full line of plumbing services, they can help with anything from garbage disposal installation to hot water tank replacement.

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Learn About the Best Home Tap Water Filter

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Filtering Tap Water Is Important

Are you confident you know what is in the tap water you and your family drink? Have you taken the time to have it tested to determine the contaminants present? If not, you could be exposing your family to harmful toxins every time you reach for a glass of water. For true peace of mind, more families are filtering their tap water to ensure it is safe to drink.

Now, amidst fear of viruses and other impurities in the air and water, you must keep food and water safe from contaminants to lessen your chances of exposure. Read on to learn about your options for a water filtration system to keep your home safe.

Benefits of Undersink Water Filters

under sink filtersOne method to filter your household’s tap water is to install an under-sink water filtration system. These filters work by diverting water from the pipes through the filter before it reaches the faucet.

Advanced filtration systems have an attachment for the faucet that allows the user to choose between regular tap water or filtered water depending on its intended use.

This ensures fewer cartridge replacements because the user can choose which water needs to be filtered and therefore extend the life of the filter cartridge. Undersink water filters not only make tap water safe to drink, but they also improve the overall taste of the water.

They require no additional space for installation, and they are relatively inexpensive compared to the price of buying bottled water for your entire household. Undersink water filters will give you peace of mind that your family’s drinking water is safe.

Why Choose a Faucet Mounted Water Filter?

mounted filter

Faucet mounted water filters are arguably the most convenient and affordable water filtration systems for your home.

They are cheaper than under sink filtration systems but may not be as effective at filtering out all contaminants.

They are easy to install, and filters only need to be replaced every few months. Faucet mounted water filters also always have a diverter so you can choose between regular tap water or filtered water and increase the longevity of each cartridge.

Best of all, there are plenty of different brands and models, so you can easily find the ideal water filter that is compatible with your specific fixtures.

Concerned About Water for Cleaning and Personal Hygiene?

whole filtersIf you want to be sure your household drinking water is safe for consumption, consider a whole home water filtration system. These systems filter all water that enters your home, whether it is for drinking or not.

The filter is attached to the main water line before the water heater and uses an activated carbon filter to remove all contaminants, including sediments and VOCs. These systems also improve the overall taste and smell of the water.

Installation of a whole home water filter is much more in-depth than faucet-mounted or under sink filters as they require turning off the main water line and cutting into the pipe. Therefore, it is recommended you contact a professional to help install a whole home water filter.

Filtering tap water is no longer a luxury but a necessity to keep you and your family safe. Be sure to contact your local plumbing company if you need help or have any questions on finding your next water filter method.

Let Falcon Plumbing Help

Still unsure which filtration system is best for your home and your family’s needs? Let Falcon Plumbing help you make an informed decision. Falcon Plumbing stands by their work and only uses quality materials and attentive professionals who will listen to your needs. With over 30 years of experience, Falcon Plumbing is the name Miami residents trust.

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April Showers Bring... the Water Indoors!

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Keep Your Home Dry This Rainy Season

May flowers aren’t the only thing that April showers can bring. If you aren’t getting your plumbing routine maintenance done at the end of every winter, your home may experience plumbing issues. Large amounts of rainwater can easily compromise your plumbing system if it isn’t in the best working conditions. Getting your plumbing maintenance done is cheap compared to the damages caused by flooding.

Your plumbing professional will be able to tell you where your problem areas are and get them repaired before a problem occurs rather than after. To learn more about how large amounts of rain can affect your household plumbing system, continue reading.

Saturated Soil Can Cause Water Backups

home backupsSaturated soil is nothing to mess with. There are numerous problems that can occur from saturated soil moisture. First, the soil becomes saturated when the soil pores fill with water. Once the pores are filled that is when the soil is said to be saturated.

It becomes extremely dense and can actually crush sewer lines as a result. Once this occurs, water will begin to backup within your home’s plumbing fixtures. You will want to call a plumber as soon as you notice this happening.

Expansive soils are also a problem. These are soils with clay minerals that expand and hold large amounts of water. If your foundation is surrounded by expansive soil, you could experience flooding from your foundation as well.

Not to mention it could actually cause a shift in your foundation, which would severely compromise your plumbing system. Sloping soil away from the home is one good way to fight this, but your plumber can also help prevent severe problems from saturated soil.

What to Do About Slab Leaks

As mentioned above, saturated soil can cause shifts in your foundation. These shifts can cause what’s known as slab leaks. Slab leaks can be caused by a few different things other than saturated soil.

slab leaks

Some causes of slab leaks include:

  • Improper Construction: If your pipes were improperly installed or dented upon installation, this will compromise your piping system and lead to leaks underneath your foundation.
  • Pressure: The added weight from saturated soil can cause pipes to leak or burst. This can also be caused by earthquakes and soil erosion.
  • Water Quality: If your water quality is not on par, your pipes can get corroded.
  • Abrasion: This happens when the pipes rub against concrete, gravel other pipes, or other rough materials.
  • Old Plumbing: If your pipes are old, natural wear and tear can also cause leaking.

It is important to call a plumber as soon as you notice any signs of slab leaks. Some signs include:

  • Damp Floors
  • Moldy Floors
  • Warm Areas on the Floor
  • Low Water Pressure
  • High Utility Bill

Call an experienced professional to check your home for a slab leak immediately. The professional will hopefully get the problem under control before the damages become extensive.

Water Pressure Can Cause Cracked Pipes

Some people think that the higher the water pressure, the better. This isn’t necessarily true, though. High water pressure can actually cause some expensive damage. When the water pressure is too high, water will begin to drip out of faucets and showers. In return, your utility bill will be raised. Not only that, but high water pressure will also begin to erode pipes over time.

There are a few ways in which a professional might go about fixing this issue. These different approaches include:

  • cracked pipesCured-In Place: Plumbing companies can remotely line a section of piping without having to dig a trench. The pipe must first be cleaned and dried, then the installers will apply the lining to the cracked area.
  • Pull-In Place: This method is best for larger cracks in the piping. The material is placed into the pipe with steam. The liner is saturated in epoxy and then placed into the pipe and pulled through. Air will then open the sleeve and hold it against the walls until it dries.
  • Pipe Bursting: This method is used when the pipe is severely damaged. The installer needs physical access to repair. Once this is achieved he will place a “bursting head” at the access point. This will break the old pipe apart and allow for a new pipe to be seamlessly drawn in behind it.
  • Repiping: A house will sometimes need a whole new piping system installed if the pipes are old and the damage is too severe.

Falcon Plumbing Will Fix Your Pipes

The professionals at Falcon Plumbing are here for you 24 hours a day with their emergency plumbing services in Miami, FL. They offer these services with no overtime charges! They understand plumbing issues are frustrating and unsafe. 

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How to Stop Your Home's Water From Smelling Bad Once & for All

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Getting Rid of Water That Smells Bad

There are a lot of places that have a distinct smell. When someone goes to a gas station to fill up their car, the smell of gas hits the driver as soon as they pull into the lot. But when it comes to water, water really shouldn’t have a scent to it.

So if the water starts to smell bad at home, it’s a sign that something is not working properly within the plumbing system. There are many things that could be causing the smelly water.

Whether it smells like rotten eggs because of bacterial growth in the pipes or it smells musty because of decaying matter in the drains, foul-smelling water should be taken care of immediately before it leads to other health concerns. Here are a few ways to keep smelly water away from the house.

Use Water Softeners

water softenersPeople talk about hard water a lot. So what is hard water exactly and how can it cause water to smell bad? Essentially, hard water is water with high levels of mineral content and is formed when water filters through limestone, chalk, or gypsum and picks up pieces of these deposits along the way.

This is what causes the water to be rougher on a person’s hair and skin, and this is what causes white buildup on the walls of the shower. Hard water can also carry bacteria, which is why it can smell like sulfur or rotten eggs.

Installing and using a water softener can help eliminate this bad smell. A water softener uses ion exchange technology to grab ahold of the mineral ions and remove them from the water to turn hard water into soft water.

Disinfect the Sinks

When it’s not the water itself, sometimes it can be the sink or the sink drain that’s causing the bad smell. When the sink isn’t disinfected regularly it can start to smell. Which makes total sense! If someone wore the same shirt every day and never washed it, that shirt would start to stink from a mile away.

clean sinks

The same is true with the bathroom or kitchen sink. It gets used on a daily basis, so there’s going to be some level of dirt and bacteria sitting in the sink that could eventually cause it to smell. Regularly disinfecting the sink with soap and warm water, scrubbing off any buildup that exists, and cleaning out the drain can help prevent the sink and faucets from developing that nasty smell.

Beware When the Hot Water Stinks

hot water stinksSometimes the water only smells when the hot water is turned on. When this happens, it’s likely that there’s an issue with the water heater. Water heaters can experience a buildup of bacteria. When the bacteria from the water heater mixes in with the water itself and starts traveling through the rest of the home’s pipes and sinks, it can start to smell like rotten eggs.

When this happens, be sure to call a professional plumber so they can clean or fix the water heater in a safe and effective way. In many cases, this is as simple as draining and cleaning the tank. If, however, the water heater is old and has a large amount of buildup inside, a replacement may be needed.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing treats their clients the way they would want to be treated themselves by always showing respect and being honest. All of their services are performed with their customers’ best interests in mind, including kitchen plumbing services and water softener installations. There is no job too small or too tough for Falcon Plumbing to handle.

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Everything you Need to Know to Handle Slow Draining Sinks

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Your Guide to Dealing with Slow Draining Sinks

Slow-draining sinks are an issue that most homeowners deal with at one time or another. It’s a common issue, but thankfully it’s also one that’s relatively easy to resolve. It’s particularly easy to handle if you treat your pipes well and stay on top of plumbing maintenance.

So, worry no more about slow-draining sinks or drains. Here is a cheat sheet from local professionals that will help you handle all of your sluggish-drain issues. And the good news is that keeping your drains running smoothly will not only alleviate some of your worries, but it will also help to keep your pipes clean and avoid more serious plumbing issues in the future.

What Causes Slow Draining?

A number of things can cause drains to be slow. In kitchen sinks, the most common cause of the problem is food or liquids that are put down the drain. Foods with grease, oil, or fats are particularly difficult on pipes as they cling to materials that they come into contact with.

slow draining causes

This means that not only do these materials start buildup on pipes, but they also trap other debris, which makes the issue worse. In bathroom plumbing, hair is the most common cause of sluggish drains. Other common causes are tree roots in pipes, deteriorating pipes, or accumulated buildup in your home’s piping system.

Tips for Fixing Slow Drains

fixing slow drainsThere are a number of ways to fix slow drains. Sometimes simply pouring boiling water down the drain will help to clear the blockage. Additionally, vinegar followed by baking soda and then boiling water can be an effective way to clear a clog.

In some cases, using a plunger can help to clear the drain. An old plumber’s trick to clear a clogged pipe is pouring a bucket of water down the drain as quickly as possible. The force that the sudden surge of water creates often will clear the blockage.

When the blockage is more substantial, a plumber's drain cleaning solution is to use a snake to clear the blockage. Snaking a pipe might seem like a simple process, but it can cause problems to pipes if not done correctly. As a result, this is something that should only be done by professionals that know what they’re doing.

Easy Ways to Prevent Having Slow Drains

The best way to prevent slow drains is to take good care of your pipes. Avoid putting fats, oils, and grease down the kitchen sink. Additionally, only put toilet paper in the toilet. Another good way to take care of your pipes is to regularly clean them by pouring boiling water down the drain. Further, it’s important to regularly have all of your home’s pipes cleaned. This is easy maintenance that will help to keep your pipes and drains in good condition.

preventing slow drains

If you have questions about sluggish drains or need to have your pipes cleaned, contact a trusted professional. Staying on top of plumbing maintenance helps to avoid the headaches, stress, and expense that come with a plumbing emergency.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has been providing quality plumbing services in Miami for over 30 years. Their team of trained professionals is committed to excellent customer service and quality workmanship.

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Have You Ever Wondered How a Plumbing Snake Works on Clogs?

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Discover How Snaking Pipes Can Be of Help in Clog Removal

Plumbers use a pipe snaking tool to clear clogs that block drains. The tool consists of a long metal cable with a handle with an uncoiled spring at the end. Typical plumbing snakes can stretch up to 50 feet, with the ability to coil it up for ease of storage.

Usually, a snake or pipe auger comes in handy for clogs that are too stubborn to remove with a plunger. This article discusses the process of snaking pipes and how it can help remove some of the toughest blockages from your plumbing.

Removing Visible Obstructions Made Easy

removing visible obstructionsBlockages have a strange way of occurring unexpectedly. If you don’t take any steps fast enough, your drains will stop flowing completely, and can eventually lead to a bigger problem like burst pipes.

Before you call a plumber, you could try a few quick fixes such as pouring boiling water, baking soda or white vinegar into the drain. This can help breakdown the blockage and often removes smaller ones altogether. Similarly, you can stop this issue altogether in high-usage areas like your tube or kitchen sink by adding a drain filter - just remember to clean it.

Essentially, when you’re dealing with a clog, the first thing you should do is to try and remove visible blockages from the troubled area. If the clog is small enough, this will fix it, and you’ll be back to working order in no time.

Using the Snake for Drain cleaning

Snaking is not a replacement for drain cleaning, and an even less competitor when referencing hydro-jetting vs. snaking. So first off, you need to ensure that the drain is clear of obstacles. As mentioned earlier, boiling water and chemicals when poured into the drain help dissolve grease.

Nonetheless, using a snaking pipe is not difficult. You may have to put on work clothes as the task will get you dirty. Once you identify a point of entry, insert the snaking pipe into the drain. Do not force it but begin to rotate its handle slowly and maintain a consistent pace. Proceed until you encounter the obstacle.

drain cleaning

Once found, the snake will wrap into or around the blockage. After a bit of spinning, you can pull the snake, which will essentially pull the blockage out of the pipe. In some cases, you may have to repeat the process, but eventually, the pipe will be completely free and clear.

Contact a Professional Plumber

professional plumberSnaking until you eventually clear a clog sounds easy. That is not a surprise. However, cleaning your drain after unclogging involves a lot more work and experience and could possibly leave you a broken pipe to repair.

If you’re struggling to find a fix ditch the DIY methods and opt for professional help. Trained plumbing contractors have the expertise, heavy-duty machinery, and tools needed to break up and remove any blockage in your plumbing.

Not only will it provide you an effective fit, but also you’ll have some peace of mind knowing you have someone to call on if the issue returns!

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing offers burst pipe repairs, kitchen plumbing, toilet repair, and drain cleaning, among other services. The company provides its expertise to clients in Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. It is a family business with over 25 years of existence.

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New And Exciting Plumbing Tips for The New And Exciting Year

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Smart Tips You Can Use To Help Save Water

It’s that time again when people ring out the old year and ring in the new year. During this time many folks are making new years resolutions. Some want to get healthier and some want to learn new things. As a homeowner, there is plenty to learn in order to keep your home comfortable and in good working order.

While you should always work with a plumbing expert to keep your home in tip-top shape, there are some things you can do to make a difference. In this article, plumbing professionals will cover easy to implement tips you can use for a more successful new year.

Address Water Leaks Quickly

saving waterAs most all have heard elders say “1 inch of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. In other words, if you do preventative maintenance on your plumbing it will prevent you from having to have repairs done later. Check for drips or leaks in and around your pipes, faucets, and showerheads.

Also be sure to check appliances such as garbage disposals, refrigerators, and water heaters, as these appliances can also be sources of leaks that most people would not suspect. Even the smallest leak can have a big impact on your home.

Not only can it cause damage to countertops and cabinetry, but if left unrepaired for extended periods of time, you can see an increase in your water bill along with a decrease in water pressure.

Another general maintenance tip is to check drains for slow draining or clogs. One of the more common plumbing issues you can face in your home, a clog can easily damage plumbing if left uncleaned. While your toilet and kitchen sink are generally the main culprits, be sure to look at any outdoor drainage spots as well in order to save water.

Making the Switch to Eco-Friendly Pipe Materials

Copper is commonly used for water pipes and is also considered eco-friendly. The installation of copper pipes does not require solvent-based adhesives for installation. These adhesives contain harmful compounds take are not environmentally friendly. Copper is also a recyclable metal.

eco friendly

While PVC is the most commonly used pipe material in most homes, it can actually have a big impact on the environment. Not only does it require harsh adhesives to seal, but it’s also a challenge to recycle. While you’re not always going to have a need for pipe replacement, if you are planning an upgrade in your home, switching to eco-friendly pipe materials can help.

Don’t Forget Your Water Filter

water filtersProper basic plumbing maintenance of your existing water filter will ensure the cleanliness of the water and improve your entire plumbing system. Water filters are meant to do what the say, filter the water. These filters will remove dirt, debris, harsh chemicals from your water.

Not only does this make the water safer to drink, but also it can help with your plumbing system. How? Those same impurities that can harm your health, can also hurt your plumbing. Whether it’s harmful bacteria that eat away at your pipes or mineral deposits that create blockages in your plumbing, keeping impurities out of the water can help limit repairs.

Also, since you’ll be drinking more water at home, you’ll be spending less on purchasing bottles. The New Year is an amazing time when you can truly make a difference in your home. Get started today with some of the helpful tips above!

Call Falcon Plumbing Today

Falcon Plumbing specializes in residential and commercial plumbing services. They provide plumbing services by appointments and provide 24/7 emergency service with no overtime charges. They believe in old fashioned customer service to the community and can help you with all your plumbing needs.

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What you Need to Know about Water Damage and Homeowner's Insurance

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Does Your Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

While you work to protect your home from certain types of damage, unfortunately sometimes things happen that lead to damage. This is true for all aspects of your home, including your plumbing systems. Although many plumbing problems can be avoided through timely maintenance, the reality is that no one is immune to plumbing emergencies, and such emergencies are often stressful and expensive.

One way to make these events a little less overwhelming is by having homeowner’s insurance that will pay for any water damage that you have. Understanding what your homeowner’s insurance covers and adjusting your policy to cover more types of water damage can help give you the peace of mind that your home will be protected even if you experience a plumbing emergency or water damage from other events. Here are some tips to help ensure that you’re prepared for such an occurrence.

Coverage for Water Leaks

A number of policies will cover water damage that comes on suddenly. Many Allstate policies, for example, contain language that says the policy covers water damage that is “sudden and accidental.” In most cases, this would include damage from water leaks. Policies that have this type of coverage will cover repairs resulting from leaks, a burst pipe or a ruptured water heater.

water leaks

If you’re unsure about whether you’re covered for leaks, it’s a good idea to check your policy for similar language and terms or to ask your agent for more information about water leaks - it could mean added savings in the midst of an emergency.

Purchasing Flood Insurance

flood insuranceWhile most insurance companies don’t offer flood insurance, you can purchase a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program. This program offers a way to reduce the impact on those affected by floods.

If you’re concerned that your home could flood, it’s a good idea to learn more about this option. You can purchase a policy that covers your home and one that covers its contents.

For homeowners worried about flooding, this is a great way to have some peace of mind that your home will be covered even in the event of a catastrophic flood. You can talk to your insurance agent to learn more about these policies and to find one that’s right for you.

Finding Reliable Water Damage Services

If you have a plumbing emergency and water damage, there are lots of things to do. In addition to repairing the issue, it’s important to clean up water damage as soon as possible to avoid additional problems. As such, it’s a good idea to use professionals that know how to dry an area and eliminate risks for mold and mildew.

water damage services

Many plumbing companies provide water damage services, and, usually, those that don’t can refer you to a reputable company. So, if you’re in need of water damage services, it’s a good idea to contact your plumber for help and advice.

Falcon Plumbing Is Here to Help!

Falcon Plumbing has been providing quality plumbing services to the Miami area since 1986. They can handle all jobs - no matter how big or how small - and their priority is their clients’ interests. A woman-owned and operated business, they pride themselves on being tough on plumbing issues and gentle with their customers.

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The Spook In Your Home Could Be Pipe Noises Not a Halloween Ghost

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Is Your Plumbing System Making Scary Sounds?

It is that time again! Halloween is around the corner and homeowners find themselves letting their imaginations get the better of them. Strange noises in water pipes can disturb a restless night's sleep in more ways than one.

Whether it’s terror or the horrors of costly repairs, spooky pipe noises are hard to overcome. This article will discuss some of the more common causes of those strange noises, and give homeowners an idea of how to resolve them once and for all.

October Brings Out The Pipe Spooks

The month of October is full of thrills and chills that are meant to keep you up at night. Halloween comes at the cost of imagining there is more to the spooky noises homes can make during the night.

One aspect of a home that can be particularly creepy is the plumbing system. Pipes, when not working at top capacity, can make some unusual sounds that are not normal. While these noises can be offputting, and the Halloween atmosphere lends to spooky thoughts, these sounds are (for the most part) actually harmless.

Issues like water pressure and malfunctioning mechanisms can cause plumbing pipes to emit sounds that are outside the normal plumbing sounds. All of these sounds can be corrected when the homeowner is aware of the cause.

Water Pressure Can Cause Scary Humming

water pressureWater pressure that is not at an optimal level can cause many problems to arise in water pipes. One of the most disturbing of those problems is a humming noise. Generally, the humming noise is caused by water pressure that is too high.

As the water pressure is too high, it is moving at a fast rate through your pipes. This can cause a vibration that will produce a humming sound. An easy way to check is to make sure the water valves are working correctly.

While the humming noise is present, turn off each valve one at a time until the noise stops. Once the sound is eliminated, you can safely assume that this particular valve needs repair. In the case of a broken valve, or if the sound persists, a professional will be required to assist with the situation.

Toilets Can Whistle Without Supernatural Help

A whistling toilet can be offputting when the cause is unknown; especially in severe cases where the toilet screeches loudly. As with humming though, the problem exists within the plumbing. The most common cause of a whistling toilet is the fill valve.

When a toilet flushes, there is a fill valve in the tank that measures the amount of water that goes into the tank. As the water is filling, the valve is open. The valve is attached to a bobber that rises with the water. When the water reaches its designated amount, the bobber stops rising and the valve closes.

whistling sounds

The whistling noise is a side effect of a valve that is old, damaged, or broken. When the valve is unable to open or close correctly, the pressure escaping creates a whistling noise. In the right circumstances, it can create a screeching noise that can be unsettling.

Generally, replacing this mechanism will stop the problem, however, homeowners are encouraged to call an expert when not familiar with the repair/ replace process as it can lead to bigger more costly repairs.

Air Bubbles Create Loud Bangs

air bubblesLoud banging noises can be startling when they happen in the middle of the night. Chances are, if they are connected to your water pipes, the noise will happen while you are standing at the sink. Though this can still be startling, it is another product of water pressure.

Air bubbles are created in water pipes when the water pressure is too low. Another signal of air bubbles besides banging is when the water stutters when the faucet is first turned on. On the other hand, water pressure that is too high can also cause banging noises in the form of water hammers.

Water hammers are caused by the water traveling too fast towards the faucet when the faucet is turned off. Like a car crash, the water comes to a sudden stop and will cause a loud banging sound to come from the pipes. Either of these issues is repairable with the assistance of a professional plumber.

Falcon Plumbing Is Available For Spooky Assistance

Woman-owned and operated, Falcon Plumbing is the expert in the Miami FL area. With no overtime charges, Falcon Plumbing is equipped to handle all of your spooky plumbing needs 24/7. With a unique understanding of the homeowner's needs, they have been proudly servicing the community since 1986.

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